Learn to Propagate Plants

• Save money
• Grow the plants that you want
• Propagating plants is a rewarding hobby
• Use your new knowledge to start a business

An average home garden can contain over 300 plants, and with the average plant costing up to £8,000 or more; it is easy to see how a lot of money can be saved by learning to propagate your own. Plants don’t last forever either; so an initial cost of £2,000 to plant out a garden can continue eating into your budget year after year, as old plants die or go our of favour and need replacing

Foe some, propagating plants may be purely a way to save money; for others it can develop into a rewarding hobby, or even a profitable small business

There are 9 lessons in this course:

• Methods of Propagation

• Propagating Structures and Techniques

• Propagating Materials

• Seed Propagation

• Propagating by Cuttings

• Miscellaneous Propagating Techniques

• Budding and Grafting

• Propagation of Specific Plants

• Layout and Organisation of a Propagating Area

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Aims

• Obtain leaflets or catalogues plus prices for a range of plant containers.
• Obtain samples of at least 6 different potting soil components and make up a mix which could be used for general potting of outdoor shrubs and trees into 6 inch pots.
• Collect samples of at least six types of plant labels.
• Collect at least three different types of seed to plant and germinate.
• Obtain catalogues or price lists from at least six companies or organisations which supply seed.
• Put in cuttings of at least three different types of plants.
• Use diagrams to explain how you would grow four different cuttings.
• Contact a bulb or herb farm to research the type of propagation program they have.
• Carry out aerial layering.
• Practice budding and grafting.
• Prepare a work schedule for a propagation set up.
• Design the layout for a new nursery or propagation area which would be ideal for your purposes.

Learn How Plants are Propagated?

There are many different ways of producing plants though most plants are produced commercially by either seed or cutting propagation. ‘Tissue culture’ or ‘micropropagation’ techniques carried out in a laboratory are sometimes used where very large numbers of one plant variety are required quickly, or where limited propagation stock is available. Other plants (eg. roses, deciduous fruit and ornamental trees) are traditionally produced by budding and grafting onto seed or cutting grown rootstocks. Division and separation are commonly used for the propagation of bulbs and herbaceous perennials.

Other propagation techniques (eg. layering or marcotting) may be important in the propagation of some specific types of plants; however they are relatively insignificant when taking a broad view of the nursery industry.

SEXUAL PROPAGATION

Sexual propagation involves growing a plant from a seed or spore which has been produced by fertilization of the female part of a plant by the male part. Plants grown this way can have some characteristics of one parent and some characteristics from the other parent. A sexually propagated plant is not always exactly the same as the plant from which the seed or spores were taken. Most flowering annuals, vegetables, biennials and perennials are grown this way. Ferns and some trees and shrubs are also propagated sexually in the nursery industry.

ASEXUAL PROPAGATION

Asexual or vegetative propagation involves producing a new plant from only one parent. A part of an existing plant such as a piece of stem, leaf or root, is treated in some way so that it can produce a new plant. In asexual propagation, the parent plant and offspring are genetically identical. A range of techniques can be used for asexuall propagation.

A Statement of Attainment in Home Propagation (Beginners) offers numerous benefits to a diverse group of individuals. Here are some key groups who would find this qualification particularly advantageous:

Gardening Enthusiasts

Gardening enthusiasts looking to enhance their skills in plant propagation will find this course invaluable. It provides foundational knowledge and practical techniques to successfully grow plants from seeds, cuttings, and other propagation methods, allowing hobbyists to expand their gardens more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Aspiring Horticulturists

For those aspiring to build a career in horticulture, this course serves as an essential stepping stone. It offers a solid introduction to the principles and practices of plant propagation, laying the groundwork for more advanced horticultural studies and professional opportunities in nurseries, botanical gardens, and landscape design.

Home Gardeners

Home gardeners aiming to beautify their living spaces with a variety of plants will benefit from the skills and knowledge gained in this course. Understanding the basics of propagation can help them grow a diverse array of plants, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and environmental value of their home gardens.

Sustainability Advocates

Individuals committed to sustainability and self-sufficiency will appreciate the course’s emphasis on propagating plants at home. By learning to grow their own plants, they can reduce their reliance on commercial nurseries, minimize their carbon footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Educators and Community Leaders

Educators, community leaders, and volunteers involved in community gardening projects or educational programs can leverage this qualification to teach others about plant propagation. It equips them with the necessary knowledge to inspire and educate their communities, fostering a greater appreciation for gardening and sustainable living.

Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs looking to start a small business in plant sales or landscaping services can benefit from this course. It provides the foundational skills needed to propagate a variety of plants, which can be a valuable addition to their product or service offerings, potentially increasing their market appeal and profitability.

Retirees

Retirees seeking a rewarding and productive hobby will find home propagation an enjoyable and fulfilling activity. It not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also promotes physical activity and mental well-being through the nurturing of plants.

DIY Enthusiasts

DIY enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on projects will relish the practical aspects of plant propagation. The course offers a blend of theory and practice, allowing them to engage in creative and rewarding gardening activities.

By earning a Statement of Attainment in Home Propagation (Beginners), these individuals can gain the skills and confidence needed to successfully propagate a variety of plants, enriching their personal and professional lives.